Science

Researchers have created the first comprehensive library of genetic switches in plants, a tool that will better our understanding of how plants adapt to environmental changes and the development of more robust crop plants.

New Species

A new plant on the eastern Mediterranean coast has been described as the maternal ancestor of a species of hybrid origin, Reseda odorata, valued since Roman times for the fragrance of its flowers, and used in the ancient cosmetics industry.

Other Botany News...

Algae remove vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis thanks to an organelle called the pyrenoid, which boosts the efficiency of carbon-fixation. Researchers have known that the pyrenoid forms via a process of phase separation, the same process that causes oil to cluster into droplets in water. The new study looks deeper into how this happens.

Contrary to conventional wisdom, sulphur production by tiny marine algae decreased during glacial periods, and is more closely linked to climate than previously thought, according to latest research. A clearer understanding of the link between the climate and marine phytoplankton can help scientists incorporate these impacts in future climate models.